Methylphenidate

FDA Drug Information • Also known as: Cotempla Xr-Odt, Daytrana, Methylphenidate, Methylphenidate Transdermal System

Brand Names
Cotempla Xr-Odt, Daytrana, Methylphenidate, Methylphenidate Transdermal System
Route
ORAL
Dosage Form
CAPSULE, EXTENDED RELEASE
Product Type
HUMAN PRESCRIPTION DRUG

⚠ Boxed Warning (Black Box)

WARNING: ABUSE AND DEPENDENCE C N S stimulants, including methylphenidate hydrochloride extended-release capsules , other methylphenidate-containing products, and amphetamines, have a high potential for abuse and dependence. Assess the risk of abuse prior to prescribing, and monitor for signs of abuse and dependence while on therapy [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.1 ), Drug Abuse and Dependence ( 9.2 , 9.3 )] . WARNING: ABUSE AND DEPENDENCE See full prescribing information for complete boxed warning. CNS stimulants, including methylphenidate hydrochloride extended-release capsules , other methylphenidate-containing products, and amphetamines, have a high potential for abuse and dependence ( 5.1 , 9.2 , 9.3 ). Assess the risk of abuse prior to prescribing, and monitor for signs of abuse and dependence while on therapy ( 5.1 , 9.2 ).

Description

11 DESCRIPTION Methylphenidate Hydrochloride Extended-Release Capsules contain methylphenidate hydrochloride, USP, a CNS stimulant. Methylphenidate Hydrochloride Extended-Release Capsules are an extended-release formulation of methylphenidate for oral administration with a bi-modal release profile. Each Methylphenidate Hydrochloride Extended-Release Capsule contains pellets, with half the dose as immediate-release and half as delayed-release, thus providing an immediate release of methylphenidate and a second delayed release of methylphenidate. The active substance in Methylphenidate Hydrochloride Extended-Release Capsules is methyl α-phenyl-2-piperidineacetate hydrochloride. Its structural formula is as follows: M.W. 269.77 Methylphenidate hydrochloride, USP is a white, odorless, fine crystalline powder. Its solutions are acid to litmus. It is freely soluble in water and in methanol, soluble in alcohol, and slightly soluble in chloroform and in acetone. Each capsule, for oral administration, has the following inactive ingredients: ammonio methacrylate copolymer, black iron oxide, D&C Yellow #10 Aluminum Lake, FD&C Blue #1 Aluminum Lake, FD&C Blue #2 Aluminum Lake, FD&C Red #40 Aluminum Lake, gelatin, hypromellose, methacrylic acid copolymer, polyethylene glycol, propylene glycol, shellac glaze (modified), sugar spheres, talc, titanium dioxide and triethyl citrate. The 10 mg and 40 mg capsule shell contains FD&C blue no. 1, FD&C red no. 40 and FD&C yellow no. 6. The 30 mg capsule shell contains D&C red no. 33 and D&C yellow no. 10. Structural Formula

What Is Methylphenidate Used For?

1 INDICATIONS AND USAGE Methylphenidate hydrochloride extended-release capsules are indicated for the treatment of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), in pediatric patients 6 to 12 years of age [see Clinical Studies ( 14 )] . Methylphenidate hydrochloride extended-release capsules are a central nervous system (CNS) stimulant indicated for the treatment of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in pediatric patients 6 to 12 years of age. ( 1 )

Dosage and Administration

2 DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION Administer orally once daily in the morning. ( 2.2 ) Capsules may be swallowed whole, or opened and the entire contents sprinkled on applesauce. ( 2.2 ) Should not be crushed, chewed, or divided. ( 2.2 ) Patients new to methylphenidate: Start at 20 mg daily, titrating the dose weekly in 10-mg increments. Doses above 60 mg daily are not recommended. ( 2.3 ) For patients currently using methylphenidate hydrochloride tablets or methylphenidate hydrochloride extended-release tablets: Dosage is based on current dose regimen. ( 2.4 ) If switching from other methylphenidate products, discontinue treatment and titrate with methylphenidate hydrochloride extended-release capsules. ( 2.4 ) 2.1 Pretreatment Screening Prior to initiating treatment with central nervous system (CNS) stimulants, including methylphenidate hydrochloride extended-release capsules, assess for the presence of cardiac disease (i.e., perform a careful history including family history of sudden death or ventricular arrhythmia, and physical examination) [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.2 )] . Assess the risk of abuse prior to prescribing, and monitor for signs of abuse and dependence while on therapy. Maintain careful prescription records, educate patients about abuse, monitor for signs of abuse and overdose, and periodically reevaluate the need for methylphenidate hydrochloride extended-release capsules use [see Boxed Warning, Warnings and Precautions ( 5.1 ), Drug Abuse and Dependence ( 9 )]. 2.2 General Dosing Information The recommended starting dose for methylphenidate hydrochloride extended-release capsules is 20 mg once daily. Increase dosage gradually, in increments of 10 mg weekly. Daily dosage above 60 mg is not recommended. When a lower initial dose is appropriate, patients may begin treatment with 10 mg. Administer methylphenidate hydrochloride extended-release capsules orally once daily in the morning. Methylphenidate hydrochloride extended-release capsules may be swallowed as whole capsules or may be administered by sprinkling the capsule contents on a small amount of applesauce (see specific instructions below). Methylphenidate hydrochloride extended-release capsules and/or their contents should not be crushed, chewed, or divided. The capsules may be carefully opened and the beads sprinkled over a spoonful of applesauce. The applesauce should not be warm because it could affect the modified release properties of this formulation. The mixture of drug and applesauce should be consumed immediately in its entirety. The drug and applesauce mixture should not be stored for future use. Pharmacological treatment of ADHD may be needed for extended periods. Periodically reevaluate the long-term use of methylphenidate hydrochloride tablets and methylphenidate hydrochloride extended-release tablets, and adjust dosage as needed. 2.3 Patients Currently Using Methylphenidate Hydrochloride Tablets or Methylphenidate Hydrochloride Extended-Release Tablets The...

Side Effects (Adverse Reactions)

6 ADVERSE REACTIONS The following are discussed in more detail in other sections of the labeling: Abuse and Dependence [see Boxed Warning, Warnings and Precautions ( 5.1 ), Drug Abuse and Dependence ( 9.2 , 9.3 )] Known hypersensitivity to methylphenidate or other ingredients of methylphenidate hydrochloride extended-release capsules [see Contraindications ( 4 )] Hypertensive crisis when used concomitantly with monoamine oxidase inhibitors [see Contraindications ( 4 ), Drug Interactions ( 7.1 )] Serious cardiovascular reactions [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.2 )] Blood pressure and heart rate increases [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.3 )] Psychiatric adverse reactions [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.4 )] Priapism [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.5 )] Peripheral vasculopathy, including Raynaud’s phenomenon [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.6 )] Long-term suppression of growth [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.7 )] Most common adverse reactions (greater than 5% during incidence) were headache, insomnia, upper abdominal pain, decreased appetite, and anorexia. ( 6 ) To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact Teva Pharmaceuticals USA, Inc. at 1-888-838-2872 or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch . 6.1 Clinical Trials Experience Because clinical trials are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse reaction rates observed in the clinical trials of a drug cannot be directly compared to rates in the clinical trials of another drug and may not reflect the rates observed in practice. The clinical program for methylphenidate hydrochloride extended-release capsules consisted of 6 studies: 2 controlled clinical studies conducted in children with ADHD aged 6 to 12 years and 4 clinical pharmacology studies conducted in healthy adult volunteers. These studies included a total of 256 subjects; 195 children with ADHD and 61 healthy adult volunteers. The subjects received methylphenidate hydrochloride extended-release capsules in doses of 10 to 40 mg per day. Safety of methylphenidate hydrochloride extended-release capsules was assessed by evaluating frequency and nature of adverse events, routine laboratory tests, vital signs, and body weight. A placebo-controlled, double-blind, parallel-group study was conducted to evaluate the efficacy and safety of methylphenidate hydrochloride extended-release capsules in children with ADHD aged 6 to 12 years. All subjects received methylphenidate hydrochloride extended-release capsules for up to 4 weeks, and had their dose optimally adjusted, prior to entering the double-blind phase of the trial. In the 2-week double-blind treatment phase of this study, patients received either placebo or methylphenidate hydrochloride extended-release capsules at their individually-titrated dose (range 10 mg to 40 mg). Adverse reactions with an incidence greater than 5% during the initial 4-week single-blind methylphenidate hydrochloride extended-release capsule titration period of this study were headache, insomnia, upper abdominal pain, appetite decreased, and anorexia. Adverse reactions with an incidence greater than 2% among methylphenidate hydrochloride extended-release capsule-treated subjects, during the 2-week double-blind phase of the clinical study, are shown in Table 2. Table 2: Adverse Reactions in Greater Than 2% Methylphenidate Hydrochloride Extended-Release Capsule-Treated Subjects in the 2-Week Double-Blind Phase Preferred Term Methylphenidate Hydrochloride Extended-Release Capsules N = 65 N (%) Placebo N = 71 N (%) Anorexia 2 (3.1) 0 (0.0) Insomnia 2 (3.1) 0 (0.0) Adverse Events Associated with Discontinuation of Treatment In the 2-week double-blind treatment phase of a placebo-controlled parallel-group study in children with ADHD, one methylphenidate hydrochloride extended-release capsule-treated subject (1/65, 1.5%) discontinued due to an adverse event (depressed mood). In the single-blind titration period of this study, subjects received methylphenidate hydrochloride...

Drug Interactions

7 DRUG INTERACTIONS Antihypertensive drugs: Monitor blood pressure and heart. Adjust dosage of antihypertensive drug as needed. ( 7 ) Avoid use of methylphenidate hydrochloride extended-release capsules on the day of surgery if halogenated anesthetics will be used. ( 7 ) 7.1 Clinically Important Interactions with Methylphenidate Hydrochloride Extended-Release Capsules Table 3 presents clinically important drug interactions with methylphenidate hydrochloride extended-release capsules. Table 3: Drugs Having Clinically Important Drug Interactions with Methylphenidate Hydrochloride Extended-Release Capsules Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOI) Clinical Impact Concomitant use of MAOIs and CNS stimulants, including methylphenidate hydrochloride extended-release capsules, can cause hypertensive crisis. Potential outcomes include death, stroke, myocardial infarction, aortic dissection, ophthalmological complications, eclampsia, pulmonary edema, and renal failure [see Contraindications ( 4 )] . Intervention Concomitant use of methylphenidate hydrochloride extended-release capsules with MAOIs or within 14 days after discontinuing MAOI treatment is contraindicated. Examples selegiline, tranylcypromine, isocarboxazid, phenelzine, linezolid, methylene blue Antihypertensive Drugs Clinical Impact Methylphenidate hydrochloride extended-release capsules may decrease the effectiveness of drugs used to treat hypertension [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.3 )] . Intervention Monitor blood pressure and adjust the dosage of the antihypertensive drug as needed. Examples Potassium-sparing and thiazide diuretics, calcium channel blockers, ACE inhibitors, ARBs, beta blockers, centrally acting alpha-2 receptor agonists. Halogenated Anesthetics Clinical Impact Concomitant use of halogenated anesthetics and methylphenidate hydrochloride extended-release capsules may increase the risk of sudden blood pressure and heart rate increase during surgery. Intervention Avoid use of methylphenidate hydrochloride extended-release capsules in patients being treated with anesthetics on the day of surgery. Examples halothane, isoflurane, enflurane, desflurane, sevoflurane

Contraindications

4 CONTRAINDICATIONS Hypersensitivity to methylphenidate or other components of methylphenidate hydrochloride extended-release capsules. Hypersensitivity reactions such as angioedema and anaphylactic reactions have been reported in patients treated with methylphenidate [ s ee Adverse Reactions ( 6.1 )]. Concomitant treatment with monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), or within 14 days following discontinuation of treatment with an MAOI, because of the risk of hypertensive crises [ s ee Drug Interactions ( 7.1 )]. Known hypersensitivity to methylphenidate or product components. ( 4 ) Concurrent treatment with a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI), or use of an MAOI within the preceding 14 days. ( 4 )

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

8.1 Pregnancy Risk Summary Published studies and postmarketing reports on methylphenidate use during pregnancy have not identified a drug-associated risk of major birth defects, miscarriage or adverse maternal or fetal outcomes. There may be risks to the fetus associated with the use of CNS stimulants use during pregnancy (see Clinical Considerations) . No effects on morphological development were observed in embryo-fetal development studies with oral administration of methylphenidate to pregnant rats and rabbits during organogenesis at doses up to 10 and 15 times, respectively, the maximum recommended human dose (MRHD) of 60 mg/day given to adolescents on a mg/m 2 basis. However, spina bifida was observed in rabbits at a dose 52 times the MRHD given to adolescents. A decrease in pup body weight was observed in a pre- and post-natal development study with oral administration of methylphenidate to rats throughout pregnancy and lactation at doses 6 times the MRHD given to adolescents (see Data) . The estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage for the indicated population is unknown. All pregnancies have a background risk of birth defect, loss, or other adverse outcomes. In the U.S. general population, the estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage in clinically recognized pregnancies is 2% to 4% and 15% to 20%, respectively. Clinical Considerations Fetal/Neonatal Adverse Reactions CNS stimulants such as methylphenidate hydrochloride extended-release capsules, can cause vasoconstriction and thereby decrease placental perfusion. No fetal and/or neonatal adverse reactions have been reported with the use of therapeutic doses of methylphenidate during pregnancy; however, premature delivery and low birth weight infants have been reported in amphetamine-dependent mothers. Data Animal Data In embryo-fetal development studies conducted in rats and rabbits, methylphenidate was administered orally at doses of up to 75 and 200...

8.2 Lactation Risk Summary Limited published literature, based on milk sampling from seven mothers reports that methylphenidate is present in human milk, which resulted in infant doses of 0.16% to 0.7% of the maternal weight-adjusted dosage and a milk/plasma ratio ranging between 1.1 and 2.7. There are no reports of adverse effects on the breastfed infant and no effects on milk production. Long-term neurodevelopmental effects on infants from stimulant exposure are unknown. The developmental and health benefits of breastfeeding should be considered along with the mother’s clinical need for methylphenidate hydrochloride extended-release capsules and any potential adverse effects on the breastfed infant from methylphenidate hydrochloride extended-release capsules or from the underlying maternal condition. Clinical Considerations Monitor breastfeeding infants for adverse reactions, such as agitation, insomnia, anorexia, and reduced weight gain.

Overdosage

10 OVERDOSAGE Human Experience Signs and symptoms of acute overdosage, resulting principally from overstimulation of the central nervous system and from excessive sympathomimetic effects, may include the following: nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, restlessness, anxiety, agitation, tremors, hyperreflexia, muscle twitching, convulsions (which may be followed by coma), euphoria, confusion, hallucinations, delirium, sweating, flushing, headache, hyperpyrexia, tachycardia, palpitations, cardiac arrhythmias, hypertension, hypotension, tachypnea, mydriasis, dryness of mucous membranes, and rhabdomyolysis. Overdose Management Consult with a Certified Poison Control Center (1-800-222-1222) for the latest recommendations.

How Supplied

16 HOW SUPPLIED/STORAGE AND HANDLING Methylphenidate Hydrochloride Extended-Release Capsules, 10 mg are available as two-piece, hard gelatin capsules, with light brown opaque cap and white opaque body, filled with white to off-white pellets. Imprinted in black ink TEVA on the cap and 5345 on the body, containing 10 mg of methylphenidate hydrochloride, USP packaged in bottles of 100 capsules (NDC 0093-5345-01). Methylphenidate Hydrochloride Extended-Release Capsules, 20 mg are available as two-piece, hard gelatin capsules, with white opaque cap and white opaque body, filled with white to off-white pellets. Imprinted in black ink TEVA on the cap and 5346 on the body, containing 20 mg of methylphenidate hydrochloride, USP packaged in bottles of 100 capsules (NDC 0093-5346-01). Methylphenidate Hydrochloride Extended-Release Capsules, 30 mg are available as two-piece, hard gelatin capsules, with ivory opaque cap and ivory opaque body, filled with white to off-white pellets. Imprinted in black ink TEVA on the cap and 5347 on the body, containing 30 mg of methylphenidate hydrochloride, USP packaged in bottles of 100 capsules (NDC 0093-5347-01). Methylphenidate Hydrochloride Extended-Release Capsules, 40 mg are available as two-piece, hard gelatin capsules, with light brown opaque cap and light brown opaque body, filled with white to off-white pellets. Imprinted in black ink TEVA on the cap and 5348 on the body, containing 40 mg of methylphenidate hydrochloride, USP packaged in bottles of 100 capsules (NDC 0093-5348-01). Store at 20° to 25°C (68° to 77°F) [See USP Controlled Room Temperature]. Dispense in a tight, light-resistant container as defined in the USP, with a child-resistant closure (as required). KEEP THIS AND ALL MEDICATIONS OUT OF THE REACH OF CHILDREN. Disposal Comply with local laws and regulations on drug disposal of CNS stimulants. Dispose of remaining, unused, or expired methylphenidate hydrochloride extended-release capsules by a medicine takeback...

About This Information

This drug information is sourced from FDA-approved labeling via the openFDA database. It is intended for educational and reference purposes only. This is not medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before making decisions about medication. Drug information may be updated by the FDA; check with your pharmacist for the most current information.

What are side effects?

Side effects are unwanted reactions that can occur when taking a medication. They range from mild (headache, nausea) to severe (allergic reactions, organ damage). Not everyone experiences side effects, and severity varies. Report any concerning side effects to your doctor.

What are drug interactions?

Drug interactions occur when a medication is affected by another drug, food, or supplement. Interactions can make medications less effective or cause dangerous side effects. Always tell your doctor about all medications and supplements you take.